Lipedema

What is Lipedema

Lipedema is a medical condition where there is accumulation of excess fat and connective tissue in mostly adults women, but it rarely can affect men. It affects both sides of the body equally. The most commonly affected part of the body are the legs, thighs, hips, buttocks, and arms. Lipedema can sometimes be confused with obesity and lymphedema.

What causes Lipedema

The exact cause of lipedema is not known, however, given that lipedema occurs mostly in women during puberty, pregnancy, menopause, it is thought to be related to female hormones in adult women. Lipedema is also a hereditary disorder since the condition runs in 20% to 60% families with lipedema. Finally, studies have shown that obesity does not cause lipedema, however, lipedema is more common in women with BMI higher than 35.

Is there a cure for Lipedema

There are no cure for lipedema currently, but we have effective treatment when diagnosed early. There are both surgical and non-surgical treatment for lipedema. These treatments includes compression stocking, lymphatic massage, and liposuction.

What are the differences between Lipedema, Obesity, and Lympedema?

Lipedema usually affect both sides at the same time. It also affects the legs, thighs, and arms, unlike obesity, which affects the whole body. Lymphedema unlike lipedema, starts in the lower leg and may be related to surgery and may only affect one side of the body.

How much Fat can be removed

How much fat that can be removed from you really depends on many factors including your unique situation. In general, we can remove up to 5000 ml of fat as an outpatient procedure. Your safety is always our priority, so our plastic surgeon will discuss all these during your consultation.

What type of Liposuction is used for Lipedema Treatment

Our plastic surgeons have used many types of liposuction technique including traditional liposuction, water-assisted liposuction , power-assisted liposuction, ultrasound-assisted liposuction (Vaser), Radio-Frequency-assisted liposuction (ThermiTight & BodyTite), and laser-assisted liposuction (SmartLipo) to treat lipedema. Our experience shows that power-assisted liposuction give the best outcome for most patients, even though we occasionally add the other techniques depending on your unique situation. Our plastic surgeons will determine the best technique for you during your consultation.

How much does Lipedema treatment cost

The treatment cost for lipedema depends on many factors such as many areas that are being treated, location of the treatment, and the experience of the plastic surgeon. The cost of lipedema treatment ranges from $6000 to $20,000.

How do I schedule a consultation?

For more information about lipedema treatment or to schedule a confidential consultation at our plastic surgery practice, please call us or email us today!

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